A Complete Guide to Compression Stockings: Finding the Right Level and Style for You
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What Are Compression Stockings and Why Do They Matter?
Compression stockings are specially designed hosiery that apply graduated pressure to your legs — tightest at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg. This gentle squeezing action helps your veins and muscles move blood more efficiently back toward your heart, reducing swelling, fatigue, and discomfort.
Whether you're managing a medical condition, recovering from surgery, spending long hours on your feet, or simply looking to feel better at the end of the day, the right pair of compression stockings can make a significant difference.
Understanding Compression Levels: What Does mmHg Mean?
Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) — the same unit used to measure blood pressure. The higher the number, the firmer the compression. Here's a breakdown of the most common levels:
15–20 mmHg: Mild to Moderate Compression
This is the lightest therapeutic compression level and is ideal for everyday wellness and prevention. It's a great starting point if you're new to compression wear or if you experience mild symptoms.
Best for:
- Tired, achy legs after long days of standing or sitting
- Mild swelling in the feet and ankles
- Long-haul travel (flights, road trips)
- Pregnancy — early stages or mild discomfort
- Preventive care for those with a family history of vein issues
20–30 mmHg: Medium Compression
The most commonly recommended therapeutic level, often prescribed by healthcare professionals. It provides meaningful support for a wide range of conditions without feeling overly restrictive.
Best for:
- Varicose veins and spider veins
- Moderate edema (swelling) in the legs and ankles
- Post-sclerotherapy or vein treatment recovery
- Pregnancy — moderate to significant discomfort
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention during travel
- Prolonged standing occupations (nurses, teachers, retail workers)
30–40 mmHg: Firm Compression
This is a higher therapeutic level typically recommended under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It delivers firm, consistent pressure for more significant venous and lymphatic conditions.
Best for:
- Severe varicose veins
- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
- Significant lymphedema
- Post-surgical recovery (e.g., vein stripping, joint replacement)
- Orthostatic hypotension
Who Benefits from Compression Wear?
Compression stockings aren't just for people with medical conditions — they're used by a wide range of people to improve comfort and circulation:
- Pregnant women: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause swelling and varicose veins. Compression wear helps manage these symptoms safely throughout all trimesters.
- Frequent travellers: Sitting for extended periods on flights or in cars slows circulation and increases DVT risk. Even mild compression (15–20 mmHg) can significantly reduce swelling and discomfort.
- People who stand all day: Nurses, teachers, chefs, and retail workers often experience leg fatigue and swelling. Compression stockings help maintain energy and reduce end-of-day discomfort.
- Post-surgery patients: After procedures like joint replacement or vein treatment, compression is often prescribed to support healing and prevent blood clots.
- Those with varicose veins or edema: Compression is one of the most effective conservative treatments for managing these conditions and slowing their progression.
- Athletes: Many athletes use compression during and after training to improve performance and speed up recovery.
Choosing the Right Style: Knee Highs, Thigh Highs, or Pantyhose?
Once you've determined the right compression level, the next step is choosing the style that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Knee Highs
The most popular style, knee highs cover the foot and leg up to just below the knee. They're easy to put on, discreet under most clothing, and ideal for most everyday conditions including ankle and lower leg swelling, varicose veins below the knee, and travel.
👉 Shop Travel & Daily Wear Knee Highs
Thigh Highs
Thigh highs extend from the foot up to the mid-thigh and are recommended when swelling or varicose veins extend above the knee. They stay in place with a silicone band at the top and are available in both men's and women's styles.
👉 Shop Women's Thigh Highs | Shop Men's Thigh Highs
Pantyhose & Compression Tights
Pantyhose and compression tights provide full leg coverage and are an excellent choice for those who need compression throughout the entire leg, prefer a seamless look under clothing, or find thigh highs uncomfortable to keep in place. They're also popular during pregnancy for full abdominal and leg support.
👉 Shop Pantyhose & Compression Tights | Shop Compression Leggings
Tips for Getting the Best Fit
- Measure in the morning: Legs are least swollen first thing in the day, giving you the most accurate measurements.
- Follow the sizing guide: Each Sigvaris product includes a sizing chart based on ankle circumference, calf circumference, and leg length. Proper fit is essential for both comfort and effectiveness.
- Put them on before getting up: For best results, apply your compression stockings before standing up in the morning, before swelling begins.
- Consult your healthcare provider: For compression levels of 20–30 mmHg and above, it's always a good idea to consult with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have circulation issues or diabetes.
Why Choose Sigvaris?
Sigvaris is one of the world's leading medical compression brands, with over 160 years of expertise. Their products are clinically tested, made with premium materials, and designed to combine therapeutic effectiveness with everyday comfort and style. As an authorized Canadian Sigvaris dealer, we carry a curated selection of their most trusted styles across all compression levels.
Have questions about which product is right for you? We're here to help — browse our full collection or reach out to us directly.